Ponderay forms parks committee

PONDERAY — With the help of a few volunteers, big things could be in store for recreation in Ponderay.

Mayor Carol Kunzeman said the city is seeking applicants to serve on a parks committee. The new body, which Kunzeman hopes will include a variety of professions and areas of expertise, will help develop a master plan for Ponderay’s parks.

The decision to form the committee arrives on the heels of the city’s interaction with the Panhandle Parks Foundation. A Coeur d’Alene-based group that helps cities get park projects off the ground, Panhandle Parks Foundation representatives contacted the city to suggest a partnership. The group could even provide financial assistance in the purchase of the third parcel for the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail.

“They told us, ‘If you don’t own it, we can step up and help you,’” Kunzeman said.

However, before any work can be done, the city has to follow the proper procedures.

“The first step was to establish a parks committee and develop a master plan,” Kunzeman said.

According to Kunzeman, the committee will hopefully be comprised of individuals with the range of knowledge to develop a thorough plan.

Individuals with a wide knowledge of athletics will likely be needed, but so will builders, architects, landscapers and other professionals with a knowledge of development.

“After all, I don’t know anything about building an ice skating rink,” Kunzeman said. “I don’t know anything about playing Lacrosse.”

Applicants also need not be a resident of Ponderay. Interested individuals from anywhere in Bonner County and even beyond are welcome to apply.

“If someone from Coeur d’Alene has the right expertise, bring them on,” Kunzeman said.

The committee represents a new direction for Ponderay.

After the city’s purchase of the Field of Dreams last summer and with discussions about the Pend d’Oreille Trail ongoing, officials are making new considerations.

“We’ve never had this committee because we’ve never had a park before,” Kunzeman said.

With the right input, Kunzeman said officials are hoping to turn the Field of Dreams into a recreational center worthy of its name.

Those interested in applying should contact Ponderay City Clerk Su Warren at 265-5468.